This step is also recommended in the manufacturer's manual.

When automatic cleaning fails, it's time to literally take matters into your own hands by manually cleaning your print cartridges. Remove the cartridges from the printer. With a Q-tip moistened with distilled water, gently wipe the copper-colored area on the bottom of the ink cartridge, where the ink comes out.

Do not touch the copper colored area with your fingers. The oil on your hands can clog the ink cartridge or interfere with electrical contacts.

Do not use tap water. Tap water may contain minerals that will contaminate your printer cartridge.

Do not leave the ink cartridges out of the printer for more than 30 minutes, as this may dry out the cartridges.

Insert the ink cartridges back into the printer. Print another test page to see if the output quality is suitable.